Frederick D. Sterk, age 84, a longtime Ishpeming Township resident, passed away at his home on Friday, March 13, 2026.

Fred was born in Detroit on February 25, 1942, son of the late Norma (Nordstrom) and Peter Sterk. He grew up in the Copper Country where he attended Calumet High School before exiting early to serve in the United States Navy and reserves from 1960 to 1965. He returned to the Copper Country after getting out of the Navy. Fred married his loving wife of 62 years Kathleen Rozman on August 31, 1963, in Calumet. He worked at the Calumet and Hecla Mine until it closed. He returned to school and graduated from Houghton High School. He graduated with an Electronics Degree from Michigan Tech University. Fred got a job at Michigan Tech as an electronic mechanic. He moved his family to Ishpeming and started working at Cleveland Cliffs as an electronic repairman. Then Fred took a job at the Marquette Board of Light Power as an instrument man until he retired.

Fred played and coached hockey for years. He and others were influential in getting the Negaunee Ice Arena built and starting the Iron Range Junior Hockey program and the Negaunee Senior Hockey League. Fred skated until the age of 82. He also played in the Negaunee Oldtimers Baseball League. He enjoyed fishing, riding bike, picking blueberries, and doing woodworking. Fred mostly loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Fred is survived by his wife: Kathleen Sterk, three children: Tammy (Scott) Abrams, Jill (Dale) Jarvi, Craig (Kim) Sterk, a brother: Art Sterk, eight grandchildren: Amanda, Matthew (Amber), Sean, Bryce, Jhon, Cameron, Macy, Carson, two brothers-in-law: Richard Rozman, Michael Rozman, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, brother: Jerry Sterk, sister: Marlene Brown, and his mother and father-in-law: Marion and Ed Rozman.

Fred’s family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday March 28, 2026 at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home from 1:30pm until 3:00pm finger foods will be served throughout. A Memorial Service will follow at 3:00pm. Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Navy.

Fred’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.